Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Amber Covington. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Amber, so happy you were able to devote some time to sharing your thoughts and wisdom with our community. So, we’ve always admired how you have seemingly never let nay-sayers or haters keep you down. Can you talk to us about how to persist despite the negative energy that so often is thrown at folks trying to do something special with their lives?
Persistence is in my bloodline tracing back to slavery. My lineage consists of entrepreneurs, serviceman, politicians and many more who always stood the test of time and finished the course no matter the obstacle. I’ve dealt with nay-sayers and slander yet I’m able to overcome because my faith does not lie in man. In this life, you learn people will cast stones and hide their hand. I keep close to my heart, Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
In addition, many people in the community call me “Quiet Storm”. I always exude calmness, operate with a business mindset, contemplate and analyze situations before I respond and “I don’t bluff!’ I handle challenges and people with grace. As the former First Lady Michelle Obama , the epitome of grace and elegance stated so eloquently, “When they go low, we go high.”
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
Currently, I am the Director of Workforce Development for the Greater Memphis Chamber in Memphis, TN. I joined the organization in January 2023. I’m the newbie on the team. Transitioning into this role was a faith and bold move. Previously, I was the director for a high performing team that grew from seven to sixty staff in less than 3 years. People scratched their heads when I submitted my notice but when God is tapping your shoulder to move to a new assignment, you have to shift.
My current position has given me the opportunity to expand my knowledge and scope in the workforce development industry. One of my most exciting projects is convening a think tank of leaders from various backgrounds on how to create systemic change to ensure opportunity for the justice impacted population. I’m grateful for wonderful colleagues such as Dr. William Arnold, Director of the Tennessee Office of Reentry who ensure we are moving this work forward to impact generations. It’s important to build capacity of the justice and workforce systems to align job training and career development with labor market needs for returning citizens. Everyone deserves a chance at economic mobility and prosperity.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Three qualities or skills that have been most impactful on my journey is having a spirit of collaboration, open to continuous learning experiences and humility. There is no I in team. In order for transformative change to take place collaboration is the key ingredient. I was successful in previous roles because I had a knack for bringing people together and tackling challenges to reach successful outcomes.
Also, it’s necessary to continue to be a scholar by researching data, trends, best practices, engaging in fellowships, etc. This year I’ve had the opportunity to participate as an Aspen Fellow in the Memphis Workforce Leadership Academy. This experience immersed me into material, dialogue and project work to deepen my understanding of workforce systems and I built a greater network of thought leaders. I can’t wait to participate in the ACCE Fellowship with 19 other fellows across the country next year on how to improve workforce systems to increase economic mobility.
Humility is the most important quality. I advise anyone early in their journey to remain humble. People tend to think humility shows weakness but it is actually the greatest strength. Humility in leadership brings out the best in people by helping them to feel motivated, energized, and purpose. Ultimately, humility is a trait that equates to servant leadership and these leaders recognize that they are part of something greater than themselves.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
There are many books to choose from. I tend to read books with scripture references as the leadership journey can be taxing at times. One of my favorite authors is my college pastor, Bishop Dr. Joseph W. Walker. He has a catalog of books he has written and one my favorites is Leadership and Loneliness. This book navigates the various stages of leadership good or bad. The following passage resonated with me, “In 2nd Corinthians 4:1 the Apostle Paul says, “Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not.” Whatever assignment we undertake in the will of God becomes a ministry regardless of the context it is lived out. There is an assurance of mercy granted to those who are seeking to fulfill their assignment amidst a multitude of challenges.” Leadership is not a bed a roses but it is truly a blessing from God and nothing is put on us they we cannot bear. Leadership is a gift that we must embrace.
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